The TeX collection

If you don’t have access to the Internet, there are obvious attractions to TeX collections on a disc. Even those with net access will find large quantities of TeX-related files to hand a great convenience.

The TeX collection provides this, together with ready-to-run TeX systems for various architectures. The collection is distributed on DVD, and contains:

• The TeX Live distribution, including the programs themselves compiled for a variety of architectures; TeX Live may be run from the DVD or installed on hard disc.
• MacTeX: an easy to install TeX system for MacOS/X, based on TeX Live; this distribution includes a native Mac installer, the TeXShop front-end and other Mac-specific tools;
• ProTeXt: an easy to install TeX system for Windows, based on MiKTeX, based on an “active” document that guides installation; and
• A snapshot of CTAN.

A fair number of national TeX User Groups, as well as TUG, distribute copies to their members at no extra charge. Some user groups are also able to sell additional copies: contact your local user group or TUG.

You may also download disc images from CTAN; the installation disc, ProTeXt and MacTeX are all separately available. Beware: they are all pretty large downloads. TeX Live, once installed, may be updated online.

More details of the collection are available from its own web page on the TUG site.

FAQ ID: Q-CD